I just recently finished a carved gold leaf HDU sign for a customer, and the sign was painted to the customers color selection. The customer's "board" approved everything, but now that the sign is complete, one board member wants to change the sign color. The customer is aware that they approved the color, and will have to pay for it. My question is, what would be a good way to tackle this? I am already leary about putting additional coats (latex enamel) on it. I don't want to disturb the gold leaf (if at all possible). What about masking each letter? (40 total) (2-4" letters) (with serifs), then re-spraying the sign with a new color, and re-boardering and outlining. Suggestions? Thanks in advance, Bob
Posted by Ken Henry (Member # 598) on :
Price the additional work required using what YOU consider to be the most difficult, time-consuming method.Give that board member who's wishing to make the color change this estimate, and ask them to authorize the additional charges involved. You may be amazed at how quickly they will begin to like the initial color scheme.
Posted by Bob Stephens (Member # 858) on :
There is absolutely no easy way to change the color to save them money. I would quote the job as a complete refinish, gold and all. In the end it will be easier than trying to save the gold.
I bet when you give them the price to do the job as it should be, the right way, they will all love the original color..
Posted by Artisan Signs (Member # 3146) on :
Don't worry, I am not trying to figure out how to save them money, I will quote it accordingly. I am just trying not to back-log myself timewise, and trying to avoid re-doing most of the work over on this sign. Thanks again, Bob
Posted by Jeff Ogden (Member # 3184) on :
I would try using Spraylat over entire sign. Be sure to put plenty on, but watch out for runs. This stuff has to be on thick! When dry, cut letters with x-acto and spray background or whatever part your redoing.I don't believe the Spratlat would hurt the gold at all. Also I would watch the paint as it dries, because with the latex being so thick.it probably should come off before it's 100 % dry. Try a small test first if your in doubt, but I believe this would work.
Posted by Mark Fuller (Member # 2128) on :
Bob
I think you have been given some sage advice here!
Quote them the changes and they will freak!
If you do get the "change job", all the power to ya!
Thanks Mark
Posted by J & N Signs (Member # 901) on :
Give them the original quote...brand new sign
Posted by Jackson Smart (Member # 187) on :
If your gold is raw...forget trying to cover it. It will leave a mess. If you have clear coated it...then you have a chance.
In my experience, you will save your self time and grief by re-doing the whole sign.
Good luck!
Posted by Rick Sacks (Member # 379) on :
Masking over gold will most certainly involve re gilding.
Posted by Artisan Signs (Member # 3146) on :
Thanks for all of the advice so far. Yes, the gold is raw. I will take a few more sleepless nights, and keep you posted. Bob
Posted by Santo (Member # 411) on :
